Sharing the Road During Summer Vacations

Introduction

Are you planning a summer road trip? As you embark on your adventure, remember sharing the road with other drivers ensures you and your loved ones reach your destination safely! 

Warmer weather brings more vehicles on the road, so it is more important than ever to remain vigilant and make room for other drivers. Making room on busy roads for motorcycles, bicyclists, and trucks keeps you and others safe and helps you arrive at your destination in good spirits. Before you put the car in gas, here are a few tips on sharing the road safely this summer!

Tips for sharing the road and being prepared

1. Practice Defensive Driving

Letting emotions get the best of you when driving, especially on road trips where traffic is inevitable and accidents happen, can be hard to manage. Knowing to cool down and engage in defensive driving is critical. Taking the high road is vital, especially on a long drive. Someone cuts you off without a blinker? Take a deep breath and remember that your goal is to reach your destination safely. 

2. Stay focused

Long road trips can cause fatigue and crankiness and often result in drivers fading off before they reach their destination. Distractions can happen usually, especially when on a long road trip, which means it helps to eliminate as many distractions as possible. Use hands-free devices for calls, directions, and music, take stops for food and drinks, and try to keep distractions out of reach. 

3. Be Aware of Pedestrians and Road Work

In the summer, there is increased road work and pedestrians. Watching for pedestrians and crosswalks as you enter cities and towns will help avoid accidents and tickets. The best practice is to allow extra time when approaching a high foot traffic zone or crosswalk for anyone to cross. 

As you plan your road trip, you are already thinking about road work that can cause annoying traffic. Remember, as you enter work zones, slow down and remain vigilant, as workers are on the road and have a right to be there as well. Sharing is caring! 

4. Give Extra Room 

One type of driver you will surely see in the warmer months is a motorcyclist. While a motorcycle is smaller and takes up less space on roads and highways, you are better off providing extra space for the biker. Slowing down allows extra room and will enable you to share the road when coming up on a motorcycle. Rear-ending a bike has an increased chance of fatality and life-threatening consequences than a car. So, allowing extra room for bikers enjoying a ride is best. 

5. When Exiting the Car, Check Your Mirrors

As you arrive at your destination, you may be ready to jump out of the car and explore, but before you open your doors, stop and take a moment to look in your mirrors. Sharing the road means that from the moment you enter the car to leave the car, there are different precautions to keep in mind. Bicyclists and pedestrians can move past your car door as many sidewalks and bicycle lanes are near street parking. Check your mirrors,  make sure you’re clear, and sink your feet into the sand – you’ve arrived!

Conclusion

During the busy months of summer, it is more important than ever to drive with caution. You may think everyone driving is paying attention, but it’s best never to assume and drive safely. Warmer weather brings more people out and about, increasing traffic and vehicles on the road. Before you pack the car and hit the road, ensure you are well-versed and prepared to share the road. Remember, sharing is caring!